SQL Server 2008 Administration in Action

9.3. BLOB storage with FileStream

Prior to 2008, SQL Server-based applications used one of two methods for storing binary large objects (BLOBs) such as video, images, or documents (PDFs, docs, and so forth). The first method was to store the object within the database in an image or varbinary(max) column. Alternatively, BLOBs were stored in file system files, with a link to the file (hyperlink/path) stored in a table column.

Both of these methods have their pros and cons. SQL Server 2008 introduces a third method known as FileStream. This method lets you combine the benefits of both of the previous methods while avoiding their drawbacks.

Before we continue, keep in mind that character-based BLOBs are often referred to as CLOBs, or character ...